Prepared Dad's Strengthen families
Prepared Dad Program Assessment - A mixed methods study to evaluate the influence of participating in the Prepared Dad Program on the knowledge, perception and attitude of first time fathers.
The Prepared Dad Program was developed to provide first time expectant fathers with knowledge and practical tools to support their transition to fatherhood.
The course content is delivered 2 hours per week over 3 consecutive weeks and is co- facilitated by a clinical midwife. Fathers are then supported by an online community of fathers through events and social media.
This study will provide vital evidence on the feasibility of providing education and information to empower fathers-to-be to support their family in labour and birth and throughout the postnatal period.
The 12 month study will be undertaken through pre and post workshop questionnaire data that will inform interviews conducted 6-8 weeks postnatally. Depending on the outcomes of the assessment further research may be conducted on the same cohort of fathers longitudinally.
Objectives
- To measure fathers' levels of knowledge, perception and attitude pre and post attending the Prepared Dad Program.
- To explore participant views and experiences of perinatal fatherhood pre and post attending the Prepared Dad Program and 6 to 8 weeks post natally.
- To assess fathers' understanding of their supportive role during pregnancy, childbirth and during transition to fatherhood pre and post Prepared Dad Program attendance.
- To assess fathers' levels of satisfaction after completing the Prepared Dad Program.
- To assess the impact of attendance at the Prepared Dad Program on birth outcomes.
